"The Critical Friend is a powerful idea, perhaps because it contains an inherent tension. Friends bring a high degree of unconditional positive regard. Critics are, at first sight at least, conditional, negative and intolerant of failure. Perhaps the critical friend comes closest to what might be regarded as 'true friendship' – a successful marrying of unconditional support and unconditional critique."
(John MacBeath; Professor of Education Leadership, Cambridge University)
The Critical Friend professional development programme has been developed by QiSS for professionals working in schools, Local Education Authorities and other study support and extended services contexts, such as libraries and community organisations. The programme is intended to provide study support/extended services practitioners with the opportunity to gain skills required to undertake the role of Critical Friend.
Critical Friends undertake a number of pivotal roles in their work with study support and extended services providers to help develop their provision. As such they act as a link between partners and stakeholders, helping to provide a conduit for information. They act as a trusted friend and advocate in discussions and are a knowledgeable confidant.
The programme aims to provide them with theoretical understanding, enabling them to place learning outside the normal school day within the framework of organisational improvement and raising achievement. The programme also aims to support the development of practical skills in consultancy to prepare local Critical Friends who are able to work with colleagues, encouraging a systematic and rigorous approach to the development of study support and extended services.
The programme contains a number of elements, which can be taken separately or in combination, depending on the needs of the individual and sponsor.